I'm going to be performing at a big tourist hang out area and it is encouraged by the people that hired me to ask for tips because they arnt paying that much.

So my question is what are some good lines, quips, jokes, effects or anything to get people in the "tipping" mood. Or to at least make them realize that a tip would be appriciated.

Secondly. Are there any DVDs that focus on performing on the street / venue for tips. Drawing in a crowed, pushing for tips. Etc...

Thanks a ton guys!
-Derek

Look for the "Art of Street Performing" by Cellini, "The Secret Art of Magic" by Evans and Craver, anything by Gazzo, Jimmy Talksalot and Kozmo.

Kozmo's "Tales from the Streets" is ALL ABOUT busking and making a living by busking.

Check out Street Wise by "Black Belt Magician" http://blackbeltmagician.com/

It covers Magical Street Performing and has some great hat lines. I added one from the book and I love it.

All good suggestions listed thus far.
I'd recommend The Art of Crowd Keeping by Gazzo as a very good start in the reading department. As for video's - Kozmo's DVD is outstanding.

YES!!! Gary McKibben knows his sierra!!! He is excellent.

Bobby Maverick told me to use this line once, " Kids if your parents give you a 5 to put in the hat it means they love you very much, if they only give you a buck, your adopted." The first show I used it a lady came up to me and said, "I will have you know my daughter is adopted and she is loved very much." She was ticked off. to which I responded, " Mam, its ok, I was adopted, and so was the child that I gave up."

Touche and zing-o! Your comeback quip was even better than the original line.

I remember first street performer I saw at a Ren faire. He talked about his young daughter throughout his act....then, after his last effect his patter was something like...

"Now I'm going to go home to my little girl, who'll run up to me and ask:
Daddy, Daddy...did you do good today?
And I'll tell her, Yes, Pumpkin, Yes...I did good.
And then she'll ask me...Daddy, Daddy...did you make them laugh?
Oh Yes..yes...they laughed...
and Daddy...Daddy...did you make any money?"

Then he went around passing his hat.

Seems lame now that I see it written down, but it fit his character and was integreated into his routine, so worked well for him.

Find something that fits your character, weave it throughout your show and wrap it up at the end

"I like smiles, I love applause, I appreciate a laugh - but it won't pay my rent."

Before you leave ladies and gentlement, do the right thing, step up and drop some bills in my contribution box. It's your bills that pay my bills. I'm not paid by anyone other than you for providing the entertainment you've enjoyed here today.

Folks I do not want to go back to my old job of selling drugs to kids.

(use with discretion) I have had a few complaints at festivals and other places over this line. It is hilarious but I quit using it.

The Flaming Idiots used the following line:

"Remember, if you don't give us enough money, we will be forced to remain in town and breed with the locals."

I like Ray's line but perhaps they were objecting to the kids part...How about politicians or lawyers? Everyone hates those guys...

That's true, but the next time you need a lawyer, you probably shouldn't call a kid. They really suck at being lawyers, even if they have watched all of the shows.

My hat is on the ground, so I say, "hey guys, please be careful you don't trip over the hat, all of your money might fall in."

Just for this trick alone people throw in my hat $5,00

this bag (hat) is as empty as my bank account

the way you make your money is your job
the way I make my money .... is also your job

in the past the magicians performed for the kings
the kings payed the magicians
now it is your time to be a king

Ant more I finish the line by saying " I don't want to go back to my old job of breaking in to houses"

*LOL*